The Police delivered pure, unadulterated pop magic with this enchanting track and its memorable video.
The Song
"Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" is a vibrant reggae-pop gem released by the British rock band The Police. Penned by lead singer and bassist Sting, the song captures the intoxicating feeling of unrequited love or intense infatuation. It features a distinctive calypso-infused piano riff played by guest musician Jean Roussel, which perfectly complements the band's signature new wave sound. The track stands out for its upbeat tempo and catchy melody, a slight departure from some of their more rock-driven earlier hits.
It was the first single from their fourth studio album, Ghost in the Machine, released in 1981. The song's composition actually predates the album sessions, having been written by Sting as early as 1976, but he struggled to convince the band to record it until the Ghost in the Machine era.
The Artist
The Police, consisting of Sting (lead vocals, bass), Andy Summers (guitar), and Stewart Copeland (drums), rose to prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s as one of the most successful bands of the New Wave era. Known for their sophisticated blend of reggae, punk, and pop influences, they achieved global stardom with a string of hit singles and albums. By the time "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" was released, The Police were at the peak of their creative and commercial powers, having already established themselves with albums like Reggatta de Blanc and Zenyatta Mondatta.
Their distinctive sound, characterized by Sting's unique vocal delivery and lyrical prowess, Summers' atmospheric guitar work, and Copeland's intricate drumming, set them apart from their contemporaries. The band's ability to fuse complex musicianship with accessible pop hooks made them a critical and commercial success worldwide.
Chart Performance
"Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" was a massive commercial success for The Police, solidifying their status as global superstars. In the United Kingdom, the song soared to number one on the UK Singles Chart, becoming their fourth chart-topping single. This achievement underscored their immense popularity in their home country.
Across the Atlantic, the single also performed exceptionally well, reaching number three on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its strong showing in both major markets demonstrated the song's broad appeal and contributed significantly to the success of the Ghost in the Machine album.
Cultural Impact
"Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" remains one of The Police's most beloved and enduring hits, frequently featured on classic rock and 80s pop radio stations. Its infectious melody and relatable lyrics about the thrill of infatuation have ensured its lasting presence in popular culture. The song is often cited as a prime example of the band's ability to craft intricate, yet universally appealing, pop songs.
The track has been covered by various artists over the years, a testament to its timeless appeal and strong melodic structure. It continues to be a staple in Sting's solo live performances, often eliciting enthusiastic audience reactions. The song's upbeat energy and clever lyricism have solidified its place as a quintessential 80s anthem.
Fun Facts
- The music video for "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" was filmed in a rather unconventional setting – the abandoned Monserrat monastery on the Spanish island of Mallorca.
- Despite being a Police song, the iconic piano riff was played by session musician Jean Roussel, as Sting initially struggled to teach the part to the band and Roussel was quicker to pick it up.
- The song was reportedly one of the first that Sting ever wrote, dating back to 1976, long before The Police were famous.
- In the video, the band members are seen performing both inside and outside the monastery, often interacting playfully with the surroundings, including a scene where Sting attempts to play a cello and a contrabass.
- The video also features moments of spontaneous joy and humor, like Sting attempting to fly a paper airplane, which contribute to its charming, slightly whimsical feel.